It obviously says a lot about the team this year, that Crean keeps pushing the new guy out front to represent the program. Nick is quickly becoming one of my favorite players. And while Nick has handle all this responsibility very well, I would have rather heard what Stan or Troy have to say for themselves.

OhioHoosier

Nick has the attitude that any successful team needs. He will probably end up as one hell of a coach one day (or businessman).

notfargj

If Devin were truly to take ownership of what happened that evening, he owes Emmitt an apology. It was Devin’s foolishness that placed Emmitt in a compromising position. Yet, it is Emmitt who will forever shoulder some form of guilt and shame.

notfargj

I completely agree. In particular, I think a great deal of maturity could be the bi-product of Stan and Troy answering for their behavior.

Ole Man

I think, given time, that Devin will do exactly what you’re speaking of.
Let’s give more time.
Right now, sitting up to take a meal is major for Devin.

notfargj

Exactly. And, trust me, I understand this is a critical time for Devin and fully embrace the fact that his recovery is paramount. The one thing that led me to the above comment was Nick mentioning Emmitt’s struggle. In some cases, mental scars can prove to be more severe than physical wounds. That is, if Emmitt is a sensitive kid, he really needs to be set free from any guilt he is carrying and just learn from the role he played in the accident. He seems like a good kid and I hate to see him – or, anyone for that matter – carry around emotional baggage. I’m not suggesting this is the case for Holt but for some people that baggage can prove to be toxic.

gohoosiers09

with you on that one, I love Nick so far, but why would they send him up there, he hasnt been around enough yet. Stan, Yogi, Holt, and Troy should be up there…..

INUnivHoosier

I get what you’re saying, but Crean might not want to throw them into the lion’s den. He might be afraid of how they handle it.

The last thing they need right now is to have one of them make some dumb comment that gets more bad press.

I think it says a lot about the leadership structure at IU that the new guy has to be the voice of reason. IMO Nick Z did a much better job than Yogi who seemed like he could care less in his video blaming society. For one of the best point guards he sure lacks in leadership and maturity.

notfargj

You make a good point. Although, I think INUnivHoosier hit the nail on the head with respect to throwing Stan and Troy into the lion’s den. Given Nick’s age and maturity, it’s probably wise he spoke.

MK

he got sent up there because he is the best representative of the team, and is probably one of only 2 guys (him and yogi) that can handle questions from the press. Now isn’t the time to send Stan or Troy up there just cause the fans want to hear them speak and say they messed up. They messed up. We have to move past this though

SilentBob

People talking about Troy and Stan needing to step it up and go out there. Firstly they might have been in class. Secondly I remember Crean sending Hanner to the media last year with Sheehey, someone tried to ask Hanner about his dui, Will didn’t take it too well. I thought that was a great team move by Will, and I’m glad Troy and Stan aren’t answering questions yet.

gohoosiers09

thats a great point, i just felt like it was a little unfair sending a guy up there to vouch for all these guys. It probably would have been a bad idea because i know how the media is sometimes

SCHoosier

U can see why TC brought Nick into the program. With no seniors on the roster and some of the issues last year..Crean made a good call on Nick (that sweet 3 pt shot won’t hurt either:) During the Cody, VO years..Coach could have had his pick of several players to send out to face the media on a tough day/.story like we’re all dealing with. It’s Ironic and a bit sad..that with this group of players, Coach turns to a junior transfer (given that it would be unfair to send out a freshman) to face the media music. Nick played to that music as well as he shoots.. I think we’re all ready for some b-ball. I really hope the Hoosiers scorch the nets tomorrow night. First bucket’s for Devin!!

Ole Man

Yep; I heard Nick mention that a couple of times.
So, I think Emmitt is really taking this hard.

HannerTime Hoosier

I believe the reason NZ is speaking is he has a solid grasp of the core responsibility of what it means to be a maturing, growing college basketball player at a blue blood hoops program. The media and fans of the game are relentless in their judgmental, self-righteous communications. These are young men and the ones being singled out have caring team mates that are most likely distraught. I think NZ kept his answers on an extremely mature level and just maybe helped rechannel what is happening back in the direction it should be . . . on IU Basketball and the season @ hand.

MillaRed

I think the fact we have a kid that has never played a minute for the team answering these questions says everything we need to know about where we are in terms of leadership. I mean, its downright awkward. Everything is just awkward.

Personally, I do not think we will have another “event” this season that sets us back. I think these kids are pretty terrified at the moment. And frankly, that might be what was needed to get us on the right path.